We're pleased to announce the birth of two Amur tiger cubs on Monday, September 26 to father Strannik and first-time mother Marta. The cubs’ gender(s) have not yet been determined, and they are not scheduled to go on exhibit until some time in January, 2012. These initial months allow the cubs to become fully mobile and have full protection from their initial vaccinations; weather and exhibit conditions could also affect the date of their public introduction.
“Marta appears to be doing a really good job caring for the cubs, but we remain cautious because litters to first-time mothers often do not survive due to poor mothering skills,” Dr. Randi Meyerson, curator of mammals, said. “So far Marta is displaying very good maternal behavior.” Average litter size for Amur tigers is two to four cubs.
Tuli the Baby Giraffe is Latest "Zoo-born Newborn"
Our baby giraffe, born July 23, has been named Tuli, a Swahili word meaning "calm or serene one." The name matches her shy, quiet demeanor.
Visitors may view Tuli and her mother, Elvira, either in Africa! or through the viewing window at the end of the Africa! Overlook.
“Mother and calf continue to do well, and we’re grateful for visitors’ interest in seeing them on exhibit,” said Dr. Randi Meyerson, curator of mammals. “Tuli’s mother, Elvira, is showing strong maternal instinct and being an excellent mother. We’re limiting the time they spend on public exhibit to ensure the well-being of both animals.”
When Tuli was born, she stood six feet tall and weighed about 160 pounds at birth. The fifth member of the Zoo’s giraffe herd, she joins her older brother, Enzi, along with her father, Mowgli, and an unrelated female, Charlotte, on exhibit.
All five giraffe are Masai giraffe, the tallest animals on the planet, standing an average of 16 to 18 feet when fully grown. Despite their size, giraffe can run at speeds up to 35 mph. They can be identified by their irregularly shaped spots, which are as unique and identifiable as human fingerprints.
"Little" Lucas Is Growing Fast -- Come Visit Today!
The cubs and Tuli join our other "Zoo-born newborn" on exhibit -- our African elephant calf, Lucas, who was born June 3. You will love the playfulness of this "little" pachyderm, who weighed just over 300 pounds when he was born and continues to gain weight every day.
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